The Four Parts of Medicare
Not every senior or disabled person participates in Medicare. Some veterans opt out because their plans are sufficient. Others fail to qualify for Medicare. But since one form of Medicare or another is the most popular solution chosen by senior citizens, I’ll cover Medicare options first. Here is a sketch of the landscape …
What does Medicare Part A cover?
Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, blood, and some home health services.
How does Medicare Part B work?
Part B pays for doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, some medical equipment, and can pick up where Part A leaves off.
What is Medicare Part C?
Part C is Medicare Advantage. It is an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits through private health plans and can cover drugs.
What does Medicare Part D include?
Part D provides prescription drug coverage through Medicare-approved plans.
Is there a Medicare Part E?
Medicare does not officially include a Part E; some may refer to other supplemental and specialty plans as Part E. Compare the combination of traditional Medicare and supplemental (Medigap) insurance with Plan C.
What do I have to do to make the right choice?
First learn the landscape. Then evaluate your healthcare needs, budget, and available plans. Reassess your situation every fall, when the new plans come out, and whenever you experience life changing events.
Now Explore Medicare Coverage Options in Detail
Follow the links below for a detailed summary of each type of plan.
Medicare Part A
Understand hospital insurance benefits and eligibility details for Part A coverage.
Medicare Part B
Learn about outpatient services, doctor visits and coverage options available under Part B.
Medicare Part C
Consider private Medicare Advantage plans that combine multiple benefits for comprehensive care.
Part D
For some people, prescription drugs matter more than any other factor. While most Medicare Advantage Plans include prescription drug coverage, what you find in your plan’s formularies may be a deal breaker for you. And it can change from year to year. So, you may want to reassess it every open season, or when your medical condition changes.